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It's Been a Minute

The R-word is back. But why?

Mar 5, 2025
Imani Barbarin, a prominent disability advocate and TikTok content creator, discusses the troubling resurgence of the R-word and its implications for society. She highlights how ableism can manifest in everyday language and influences policies affecting marginalized communities. Imani also delves into the euphemism treadmill, stressing the need for direct dialogue with disabled voices. The conversation uncovers the intersections between disability and racism in public discourse, urging for accountability and a compassionate understanding of language's impact.
12:53

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The resurgence of the R-word highlights a troubling normalization of ableism in public discourse, particularly during politically charged times.
  • Ableism not only manifests in language but also permeates legal structures, disenfranchising disabled individuals and undermining their rights.

Deep dives

Uptick of Ableist Language

The recent resurgence of the R word in public discourse highlights the ongoing prevalence of ableist language in society. Notably, this trend has been observed during politically charged times, such as the midterm elections in 2022, where derogatory terms have been utilized to marginalize individuals who dissent from the political norm. The conversation around this word is not merely about its usage but also encapsulates the underlying ableist sentiment that pervades many public discussions, often weaponizing disability as a form of insult against those with differing opinions. This revival raises concerns about the implications for marginalized communities, particularly as these terms can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and overshadow the lived experiences of the disabled population.

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